Bow hatch construction for watercraft

ABSTRACT

A watercraft has an improved bow hatch design. The bow hatch is disposed above a bow storage compartment and can be secured in a closed position. A locking mechanism is provided to maintain the bow hatch in a closed position. The locking mechanism comprises a separated actuator and locking member. Thus, the actuator can be disposed in a location convenient to the operator while the locking member can be mounted in an aesthetically acceptable location. The locking member is mounted rearward of the storage bin and the actuator is located to one side of the steering mast. In addition, a cable extends between the actuator and the locking member. Body panels of the watercraft substantially enclose the cable.

PRIORITY INFORMATION

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority to JapanesePatent Application No. 2000-338827, filed Nov. 7, 2000, the entirecontents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention generally relates to hull constructions forwatercraft. More particularly, the present invention relates to storagecompartments that are disposed on the hulls of personal watercraft.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] Personal watercraft are a sporting type of watercraft. Thewatercraft, however, are fairly compact in construction with very littleavailable space for storage of personal items. Most watercraft, however,feature a forward storage compartment. To keep the hatch closed duringoperation of the watercraft, a locking or latching arrangement is used.This latching arrangement usually is very difficult to reach, and isawkward to operate, if the person desiring access is sitting or standingover the seats of the watercraft. In short, the individual must stretchover the steering controls in order to reach the latch and manipulatingthe mechanism that unlatches the hatch further complicates the task.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Accordingly, a watercraft is desired in which a storagecompartment can be unlocked from a convenient location. One aspect ofthe present invention involves a personal watercraft comprising a deck.The deck comprises a pedestal with a seat being supported by thepedestal. A control mast extends upward from the deck at a locationforward of the seat. A storage compartment is positioned forward of thecontrol mast with a hatch disposed over the storage compartment. Alocking member is positioned proximate the hatch with an actuator thatis separated from the locking member and that communicates with thelocking member. The actuator is disposed at a location rearward of thelocking member.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention involves a personalwatercraft comprising a deck with a forward storage compartmentpositioned below the deck with an access opening extending through thedeck. A cover is pivotally attached to the deck forward of the accessopening. A lock is disposed rearward of the access opening and anactuator for the lock is physically separated from the lock while beingoperatively connected to the lock. The actuator is disposed rearward ofthe lock.

[0008] A further aspect of the present invention involves a personalwatercraft comprising a deck with a storage bin accessible through anaccess opening formed in the deck. A cover is removably disposed abovethe access opening. A latching mechanism is configured to secure thecover in a closed position. Means are provided for remotely unlatchingthe latching mechanism such that the cover can be opened.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will now be described with reference to the drawings of apreferred embodiment, which embodiment is intended to illustrate and notto limit the invention. The drawings comprise 12 figures.

[0010]FIG. 1 is a partially-sectioned, side elevation view of a personalwatercraft arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,aspects and advantages of the present invention. Certain components havebeen illustrated with hidden lines and other components are notillustrated for clarity.

[0011]FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the watercraft of FIG. 1. Certaincomponents are illustrated with hidden lines, other components areillustrated with phantom lines and yet other components are notillustrated for clarity.

[0012]FIG. 3 is another plan view of the watercraft of FIG. 1illustrating some of the internal components of the watercraft.

[0013]FIG. 4 is a simplified sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 1taken along the line 4-4 in FIG. 1.

[0014]FIG. 5 is a simplified sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 1taken along the line 5-5 in FIG. 1.

[0015]FIG. 6 is a simplified sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 1taken along the line 6-6 in FIG. 1.

[0016]FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the watercraft of FIG. 1.

[0017]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a handle used on thewatercraft of FIG. 1.

[0018]FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a portion of the hull illustratingan improved bumper construction used on the watercraft of FIG. 1.

[0019]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a seat mounting arrangement usedon the watercraft of FIG. 1.

[0020]FIG. 11 is a sectional view of a portion of the seat mountingarrangement illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0021]FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a portion of a fuel tank of thewatercraft of FIG. 1. The sectional view illustrates a water pool, aselectively openable access into the fuel tank and a fuel supply unitmounting configuration, each of which has certain features, aspects andadvantages in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0022] The present invention generally relates to hull constructions forpersonal watercraft and, more particularly, improved storage lockingconfigurations. The storage locking configurations are described inconjunction with personal watercraft because this is an area ofapplication for which the storage configurations have particularutility. Those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will readilyappreciate that the arrangements described herein also may have utilityin a wide variety of other settings. For instance, the storage lockingconfigurations also can be used in other types of marine craft and landvehicles, such as snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles and the like, wheredesirable. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the presentinvention is not intended to be limited to personal watercraft.

[0023] With reference initially to FIG. 1, a personal watercraft, whichis indicated generally by the reference numeral 20, is illustratedtherein. As indicated near the tip of the bow of the watercraft 20, theillustrated watercraft 20 includes a hull 22 that is defined by a upperportion or deck 24 and a lower portion 26. In the illustratedarrangement, a liner 28 is disposed between the upper portion 24 and thelower portion 26.

[0024] These portions 24, 26 28 of the hull 22 preferably are formedfrom a suitable material such as, for example, a molded fiberglassreinforced resin. For instance, the deck 24 can be formed using a sheetmolding compound (SMC), i.e., a mixed mass of reinforced fiber andthermal setting resin, that is processed in a pressurized, closed mold.The molding process desirably is temperature controlled such that themold is heated and cooled during the molding process. For this purpose,male and female portions of the mold can include fluid jackets throughwhich steam and cooling water can be run to heat and cool the moldduring the manufacturing process.

[0025] The lower hull portion 26 and the deck 24 preferably are joinedaround a peripheral edge at a bond flange 30. Thus, the bond flange 30generally defines the intersection of the lower portion 26 of the hull22 and the deck 24. With reference to FIG. 9, the deck 24 preferablyslightly overhangs the bond flange 30. In the illustrated configuration,a nut and bolt combination 32 secures a bow bumper 34 to the overhangingportion of the deck 24.

[0026] The illustrated bow bumper 34 preferably comprises a two-partconstruction that is designed to absorb slight impacts, such as thoseencountered when docking. In one arrangement, the two parts are formedof a polypropylene and rubber composite with differing mixing ratios.For instance, the outer layer 36 can be stronger and resistant toscuffing, rubbing and other acts that might mar the surface or otherwisedetract from an aesthetic appearance while the inner layer 38 can besofter to better absorb shock loads. With reference to FIG. 2, stembumpers 39 also can be provided for the watercraft 20. The stem bumpers39 can be constructed similarly to the bow bumper 34.

[0027] With reference again to FIG. 1, the deck 24 includes a bowportion 40. Rearward of the bow portion 40 is a control mast 42 that isdisposed forward of both a front seat 44, a rear seat 46 and a boardingplatform 48. The bow portion 40 preferably slopes upwardly toward thecontrol mast 42. The control mast 42 supports a handlebar assembly thatcontrols the steering of the watercraft 20 in a conventional manner. Thehandlebar assembly also carries a variety of the controls of thewatercraft, such as, for example, a throttle control, a start switch anda lanyard switch. The handlebar assembly desirably is mounted forpivotal movement forward of the front seat 44.

[0028] A hatch cover 50 can be provided in the bow portion 40. The hatchcover 50 preferably is pivotably attached to the deck 24 and preferablyis capable of being selectively locked in a closed and substantiallywatertight position. The hatch cover 50 preferably covers an opening 51to a bow storage bin 52. The bow storage bin 52 generally defines a bowstorage space 54 in which a rider or operator of the watercraft canplace articles for transportation, for instance.

[0029] The bow storage bin 52 preferably is mounted within an openingdefined between the deck 24 and the liner 28. In the illustratedarrangement, the bow storage bin 52 is secured in position relative tothe liner 28 with fasteners 56 that are positioned within recessesformed in the bottom of the bow storage bin 52. The recessesadvantageously position an upper portion of the fasteners 56 flush withor lower than a lower internal surface of the bow storage bin. Thus, thefasteners 56 are less likely to snag any articles placed into the bowstorage bin 52.

[0030] With reference to FIG. 4, the bow storage bin 52 also preferablycomprises a drain 58. The drain 58 in the illustrated arrangementextends through the bottom of the bow storage bin in a central location.Advantageously, this location places the outlet of the drain 58 betweenthe recesses through which the fasteners 56 extend. Thus, in theillustrated arrangement, water or other liquid passing through the drain58 can travel over a portion of the illustrated liner, which slopesdownward in a rearward direction, toward a desired collection locationfor removal from the watercraft. Other suitable locations of a drainalso can be used.

[0031] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the bottom wall of theillustrated bow storage bin 52 is integrally formed with upwardlyextending sidewalls. In some constructions, the sidewalls may not beintegral with the bottom wall and the drain can be formed by providingopenings at one or more of these intersections. Additionally, the shapeof the bow storage bin 52 and the number of sidewalls can be varied asdesired. At an upper end of the sidewall or sidewalls, a seal 60 isprovided. The seal 60 advantageously is interposed between the side wallof the bow storage bin 52 and an inner surface of the deck 24 or otheradjacent surface. The seal reduces the likelihood of ingress of waterthrough the joint between the bow storage bin 52 and the body of thewatercraft 20.

[0032] One or more removable panels 62 preferably form a portion of thebow storage bin 52. These removable panels 62 can be secured in place inany suitable manner. For instance, in some applications, the panels 62may be hinged along one side to the bow storage bin 52. In otherapplications, the panels 62 may slide within a slide track created bysuitable members, such as opposing L-shaped brackets. In yet otherapplications, the panels 62 may be secured in position using pins,threaded fasteners, clips or other similar mechanical members. In theillustrated arrangement, the panels 62 are secured in position bythreaded fasteners 64 that extend through each of the corners of each ofthe panels 62. Once removed, components positioned within the body ofthe watercraft but outside of the bow storage bin can be accessedthrough the opening over which the panel 62 is ordinarily disposed.

[0033] With continued reference to both FIGS. 1 and 4, the illustratedwatercraft also features a seal 66 that is disposed about thecircumference of the opening 51 leading into the bow storage bin 52. Theseal 66 preferably is disposed along an outer surface of the deck 24. Insome constructions, such as those in which the opening 51 is not definedthrough a portion of the deck 24, the seal 66 can be disposed on a coveror other body panel. Also, the seal 66 can be mounted to the undersideof the hatch cover 50. A lower surface of the hatch cover 50 preferablyabuts the seal 66 such that the seal 66 is effectively sandwichedbetween the hatch cover 50 and the deck 24, such as the arrangementillustrated in FIG. 4.

[0034] Forward of the seal 66, the illustrated hatch cover 50 ispivotally connected to the deck 24 such that the hatch cover 50 canpivot about a forward end. Preferably, a hinge member 68 forms thepivotal connection. Other suitable pivotal connections also can beconstructed. In some constructions, the hatch cover 50 may be connectedto the deck 24 such that it will pivot about a lateral side; however,pivoting about a forward end eases access into the bow storage bin 52.

[0035] To further aid access into the bow storage bin 52, a gas springcylinder 70 or other suitable lifting member can be provided. The gasspring cylinder 70 can be provided to provide enough lifting force toraise an unlatched hatch cover on its own. In other arrangements, thegas spring cylinder 70 can be sized to merely maintain the position ofthe hatch cover once manually raised. Preferably, the lifting member 70is disposed between the hinge 68 and the seal 66. More preferably, boththe hinge 68 and the lifting member 70 are substantially concealed fromexternal view beneath the hatch cover 50.

[0036] A locking mechanism 72 is disposed at an upper end of theillustrated hatch cover 50. In a presently preferred construction, thelocking mechanism 72 comprises a locking member 74 that is connected toan actuator 76 by a cable or other suitable transmission component 78.The actuator 76 preferably is positioned rearward of the locking member74. Preferably, the locking member 74 is disposed along a longitudinallyextending generally vertical plane. In one arrangement, the actuator ispositioned laterally to one side of and rearward of the locking member74.

[0037] The locking member 74 can comprise a biased finger that hooksunder a U-shaped strike when not being actuated. In such a lockingmechanism, the actuator 76 can comprise a lever that is connected to thelocking member with a Bowden wire cable such that, when the lever isdepressed or lifted, the finger releases the strike and the hatch cover50 can be raised. Other constructions of the particular components alsocan be used. For instance, an electrical construction can be used suchthat operation of the actuator sends an electric signal to the lockingmember to unlock the hatch cover 50. Such a construction wouldpreferably be weatherproofed to mitigate the effect of the wateryenvironment of use. In one particular construction, the electrical linescould extend though an inner cavity defined by the body of thewatercraft and the lock member 74 could be disposed within thecircumference defined by the seal 66. Other suitable constructions andarrangements of the locking member and the actuator also can be used.

[0038] In the illustrated arrangement, the locking member 74 is disposedvery proximate the seal 66 (i.e., within about 2 to 9 inches). In someapplications, the locking member 74 is disposed as close as mechanicallypossible to the seal 66. It has been discovered that placement of thelocking member proximate the seal 66 increases the security of thesealing effect established by the seal 66 between the hatch cover 50 andthe deck 24. Additionally, the locking member 74 preferably issubstantially concealed from external view beneath the hatch cover 50.Such a construction noticeably improves the aesthetics of the watercraftand generally protects the locking member 74 from a large amount ofwater contact.

[0039] With reference now to FIG. 2, a side body panel 80 extends alongeach side of the bow of the watercraft. In particular, in theillustrated arrangement, the side body panels extend rearward fromproximate a forward end of the bow hatch cover 50 and extend rearward toa position proximate a forward end of the front seat 44.

[0040] Rearward of the hatch cover 50 and between the side body panels80, a center cover 82 extends rearward toward the control mast 42. Inthe illustrated arrangement, a forward end of the center cover 82 isdisposed rearward of the locking member 74. The center cover 82preferably includes a raised central portion 84 that encases a forwardportion of the control mast 42 and other related components. In someconstructions, this raise central portion 84 can form a separatecomponent relative to the center cover 82. Preferably, at least aportion of the cable 78 extends beneath the center cover 82. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, the center cover 82 and the bow hatch 50advantageously shield a majority of the length of the cable 78.

[0041] A gauge cluster (i.e., multiple gauges or the like) or a singlegauge 86 can be provided between the bow storage bin 52 and the controlmast 42. In the illustrated arrangement, the gauge 86 is a speedometerthat displays a reading of water speed of the watercraft 20. The gaugeadvantageously is nestled forward of the central portion 84 of thecenter cover 82, rearward of the bow storage bin 52 and below a rear lipof the hatch cover 50. In this position, the gauge 86 is blended intothe fluid lines of the aesthetic design features of the watercraft 20.In addition, the gauge 86 is somewhat protected within this region.Furthermore, in the illustrated watercraft 20, the gauge 86 and theassociated mounting brackets and housings provide addition protection tothe locking member 74. In one construction, the gauge 86 can be mountedin a housing member that seals in any suitable manner with a portion ofthe deck 24 and the hatch cover 50 to define a subchamber in which thelocking member 74 is enclosed for protection.

[0042] The front seat 44 and the rear seat 46 are desirably of thestraddle-type. A straddle-type seat is well known as a longitudinallyextending seat configured such that operators and passengers sit on theseat with a leg positioned to either side of the seat (e.g., two-wheeledmotorcycles employ straddle seats). Thus, an operator and at least onepassenger can sit in tandem on the seats 44, 46. Moreover, these seats44, 46 are preferably centrally located between the sides of the hull22.

[0043] The front seat 44 preferably is positioned on a bottom plate 88that forms a portion of a seat supporting frame 90. The bottom plate 88covers an access opening 92 that allows access into a cavity 94, whichcomprises at least an engine compartment, that is defined within thehull 22. Of course, the two seats 44, 46 can be combined in somearrangements into a single seat mounted to the watercraft by a singlebottom plate or the like.

[0044] With reference to FIG. 2, the illustrated bottom plate 88 for thefront seat 44 is supported by a bridgeboard 96. The bridgeboard 96 issupported on lateral sides of a seat pedestal 98. Generally, thepedestal 98 supports the front seat 44 and the rear seat 46 in theillustrated arrangement. Foot areas 99 are formed alongside the pedestal98 and are generally defined as the lower area located between thepedestal 98 and a pair of raised side gunwales or bulwarks 101 thatextend along the outer sides of the watercraft 20. As best illustratedin FIGS. 2 and 6, the foot areas 99 preferably are sized and configuredto accommodate the lower legs and feet of the riders who straddle theseats 44, 46. As described above, the illustrated watercraft 20 alsoincludes the boarding platform 48 that is connected to the illustratedfoot areas 99 and that is formed at the rear of the watercraft 20 behindthe pedestal 98.

[0045] The access opening 92 generally is defined within the pedestal98. A lower surface of the bottom plate 90 or an upper surface of thebridgeboard 96 preferably carries a seal 100 that at least partiallycircumscribes the access opening 92. Thus, the seal 100 is sandwichedbetween the bottom plate 90 and the bridgeboard 96 and the seal 100preferably is configured to substantially preclude water intrusion intothe cavity 94 through the access opening.

[0046] With reference now to FIG. 10, the bridgeboard 96 preferably ismounted to the pedestal 98 with the use of resilient members 102 andsuitable fasteners 104, such as bolts. As illustrated in FIG. 11, thefastener 104 and a washer 105 can be used to secure the bridgeboard 96to the pedestal 98 with the resilient member 102 sandwiched in betweenthe bridgeboard 96 and the pedestal 98. The illustrated resilientmembers 102 have a stepped configuration with the bridgeboard 96 restingupon a portion having a reduced thickness relative to the overallthickness of the resilient member 102. Preferably, the openings thatreceived the fastener 104 are sized to reduce transverse contact betweenthe resilient member, the bridgeboard and the fastener. Such aconstruction reduces the transfer of side-to-side vibrational energy.The resilient members 102 can be formed of any suitablevibration-absorbing or vibration-damping material, including rubber, forinstance. Advantageously, the resilient members 102 reduce vibrationalenergy that can be transferred from the pedestal 98 to the bridgeboard96 and, ultimately, to individuals seated on the seats 44, 46.

[0047] With reference to FIG. 1, the front seat 44 preferably issupported at a forward end with at least a tongue 106 that is supportedwithin a channel 108, which will be discussed below in more detail. Withreference now to FIG. 10, at a rear portion, the front seat 44preferably includes a lock member 110. The lock member 110 can besecured to the front seat 44 with a pair of threaded fasteners 112.Other manners of securing the lock member 110 in position also can beused. The lock member 110 preferably includes a central aperture 114that receives a knob 116 that extends upward from the bridgeboard 96. Insome configurations, the knob 116 can be mounted to the seat and thelock member 110 can be secured to the bridgeboard 96. As illustrated, alever 118 preferably extends rearward from the lock member 110 andallows an operator to release the knob 116 from the lock member 110.Thus, the lever 118 is disposed for fairly easy access to release theknob 116 from within the aperture 114 such that the front seat 44 can beremoved from the bridgeboard 96 and, ultimately, the watercraft 20.

[0048] With continued reference to FIG. 10, a forward portion of therear seat 46 preferably comprises a pair of engaging tabs 120 that arereceived within suitably configured receptacles 122 (see FIG. 2). Thereceptacle 122 in the illustrated arrangement is a generally U-shapedplate that is secured to the bridgeboard 96 with threaded fasteners.Other configurations can be used. With the tab 120 engaged within thereceptacle 122, the rear seat 46 can be secured in position on thewatercraft 20 using a further lock member 124, which can be similarlyconstructed to the lock member 110 associated with the front seat 44.Preferably, a rear storage bin 126 is disposed beneath the rear seat 46and a seal 128 circumscribes an upper opening of the rear storage bin126. The rear storage bin 126, in the illustrated arrangement, extendsdownward into a rearmost compartment that is defined within the hull 22by an aft bulkhead 130, at least in part.

[0049] With reference now to FIGS. 2, 7 and 8, a handle 132 can beprovided at an aft end of the pedestal 98. The handle 132 advantageouslyprovides a handhold for riders of the watercraft 20 to pull themselvesup to the boarding platform 48. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the handle 132preferably comprises an integrally formed flange 134 that includes anumber of holes 136 through which fasteners can extend to fasten theflange 134 and the associated handle 132 to a suitable portion of thedeck 24, such as the pedestal 98.

[0050] The illustrated watercraft 20 advantageously comprises a mid-deckstorage compartment 140. Thus, the illustrated watercraft comprisesthree storage compartments that are positioned along, and spaced fromone another along, a vertical longitudinal center plane. With referenceto FIG. 2, the mid-deck storage compartment 140 comprises an opening 142that overlaps in a vertical plan view with the access opening 92 suchthat a rear portion of the opening 142 is positioned within an imaginaryvertical volume defined in a vertical direction by the access opening92. This construction takes advantage of available space within invehicle such that a compact construction can be achieved withoutunnecessarily inhibiting access into the cavity 94 that is accessedthrough the access opening 92.

[0051] With reference now to FIG. 1, the illustrated mid-deck storagecompartment 140 comprises a removable storage bin 144. In one preferredconstruction, the bin 144 is disposed within an opening formed betweenthe center cover 82 and a forward portion of the front seat 44. In someconfigurations, the storage bin 144 can be removed and the openingcovered by an auxiliary body panel (not shown). The illustrated storagebin 144 advantageously comprises a first section that is substantiallyrectangular and a second section that doglegs forward from a lowerportion of the first section. This construction makes advantageous useof space available upon the illustrated watercraft 20. Otherconstructions are possible and other shapes and configurations can beused as desired.

[0052] As indicated above, the storage bin 144 preferably is removable.In some applications, the storage bin may be made permanent within thewatercraft. In the illustrated arrangement, the storage bin 144 issecured to the watercraft with two sets of fasteners 146. While othersuitable connection techniques (tongue and groove, threaded fasteners,snap-fit, sliding fit, etc.) can be used, the illustrated storage bin144 is secured in position using a first set of threaded fasteners 146to the deck and a second set of threaded fasteners 148 to the centercover 82. These two sets of threaded fasteners 146, 148 preferablyextend in generally the same axial direction to ease access to thethreaded fasteners 146, 148 and these two sets of threaded fasteners146, 148 preferably are separated into two different horizontal planes.Furthermore, in one preferred construction both sets of threadedfasteners 146, 148 are disposed on a forward half of the storage bin144. The different planes and forward position of the fasteners betterdistributes the load on the fasteners that is created by items storedwithin the sloping storage bin 142.

[0053] With reference to FIG. 6, the illustrated storage bin 144 has adownwardly expanding construction such that an upper portion 150 has asmaller volume than a lower portion 152. By expanding the volume in adownward direction, the storage bin 144 can complement the shape of thewatercraft 20 in the mid-deck portion. Additionally, the overall volumeof the storage bin 144 can be increased.

[0054] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6, a removable beverage holder 154(indicated in FIG. 1 in two locations—showing the easy removability ofthe beverage holder 154) can be inserted into the storage bin 144.Preferably, the beverage holder includes an upset flange that isreceived over the throat of the storage bin 144. Other constructionsalso can be used. For instance, while not illustrated, the beverageholder 154 can include pins or can be mounted on pins (or other suitableconstruction) such that any cup or can 156 supported by the beverageholder 154 will pivot under the force of gravity to maintain the cup orcan 156 in a substantially upright position.

[0055] In one arrangement, the beverage holder 154 tightly receives thecup or can 156 such that the beverage holder is removed from the storagebin 144 with the cup or can 156. In another arrangement, the beverageholder 154 loosely retains the cup or can 156 and the bottom of the bin144 supports the bottom of the cup or can 156 to limit downward movementof the cup or can 156 into the bin 144. In a preferred construction, thebin is sized and configured such that a standard beverage can disposedwithin the beverage holder 154 will rest on a portion of the bottom ofthe bin 144 and a lid 158 can close over the can 156.

[0056] The lid 158 preferably is pivotally attached to the storage bin144 such that the lid 158 pivots about a forward portion of the storagebin 144. In one arrangement, the lid 158 comprises a structure on itslower surface that can accept the upper end of the can or cup 156 toreduce splashing that may be caused by rough waters and an open top cup.In effect, the lid 158 can form a lid for the container (cup or can).

[0057] The storage bin 144 can include a drain, if desired.Additionally, the storage bin can be sized and configured for more thanone beverage holder 154, if desired. The lid can be biased to a closedposition in any suitable manner (e.g., torsion springs). In someapplications, the lid will remain in any location in which it is left;however, biasing the lid to a closed position is desired to limit theinflow of water and water spray during operation of the watercraft.

[0058] With reference to FIG. 1, an upstanding channel 160 is definedaround the circumference of the opening into the storage bin 144. Thechannel 160 may drain to the outside of the storage bin 144 such thatwater or other liquids that may spill into the channel 160 is drainedaway from the storage bin 144. For instance, drain passages (not shown)may extend through a lower portion of the outer wall defining thechannel 160. In one arrangement, the drain passages may be formed in therearward portion of the laterally extending channel 160 that ispositioned on the rearward side of the storage bin 144 because thisportion is the lowermost portion on the inclined upper portion of thestorage bin 144.

[0059] With reference to FIG. 6, the side body panels 80 can be securedto a portion of the storage bin 144 with any suitable fasteningmechanism. In the illustrated arrangement, the rear portion of the sidebody panels 80 is secured to the storage bin 144 with generallyhorizontally extending threaded fasteners 162. A better integrated bodyconstruction results from connecting the side body panels 80 with thedeck 24 in a fore region and the mid-deck storage bin 140 in a rearregion of the panels 80.

[0060] With reference again to FIG. 1, the cavity 94 formed between thedeck 24 and one or more bulkheads, such as the bulkhead 130, divide thelower portion 26 into an engine compartment 170 and a pump chamber 172.An in-line, four cylinder, four-cycle engine 174 preferably is mountedwithin the engine compartment 170 of the illustrated watercraft 20 usingresilient mounts 176 as is well known to those of ordinary skill in theart. While the illustrated engine 174 is of the four-cycle variety, theengine 174 can also be of the two-cycle, rotary or diesel variety aswell. Moreover, the engine 174 can have one, two, three or more thanfour cylinders and can be inclined, vertical, transverse, formed withtwo banks of cylinders that extend at an angle relative to each other(v) or formed with two opposing banks of cylinders.

[0061] The general construction of the present four-cycle engine 174 iswell known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally,operations of the engine 174 can be controlled through the use of an ECU175 in any suitable manner. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 6, theengine 174 generally comprises a cylinder block 178, a cylinder head180, a cylinder head cover 182 and a crankcase member 184. A set ofcylinders (not shown) is formed within the cylinder block 178. Thecylinder head 180 and the cylinder head cover 184 cap the cylinders. Apiston (not shown) is reciprocally mounted within each of the cylinders.Each cylinder contains a combustion chamber defined by the top of thepiston (not shown), the wall of the cylinder and a recess (not shown)formed within a lower surface (not shown) of the cylinder head 180.

[0062] The crankcase member 184 is attached to the opposite end of thecylinder block 178 from the cylinder head 180. A crankshaft 186 ispositioned within the crankcase member 184 and is connected to thepistons (not shown) through a set of connecting rods (not shown). As thepistons (not shown) reciprocate within the cylinders, the crankshaft 186is rotated within a crankcase chamber, which is at least partiallydefined by the crankcase member 184.

[0063] The crankshaft 186 preferably is in driving relation with a jetpropulsion unit 188. Specifically, the jet propulsion unit 188preferably includes an impeller shaft 190 to which a propeller or animpeller 192 is attached. The crankshaft 186 and the impeller shaft 190desirably are connected through a conventional shock-absorbing coupling194. The impeller shaft 190 extends in the longitudinal direction andextends through a propulsion duct that has a water inlet port 196positioned on a lower surface of the hull 22. The lower portion 26 ofthe hull 22 also includes an opening 198 in the stern of the watercraftin which a nozzle 200 of the propulsion unit 188 is positioned. Thepropulsion unit 188 generates propulsive force by applying pressure towater drawn up from the water inlet port 196 by rotating the impellershaft 190 and by forcing the pressurized water through the nozzle 200 ina manner well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0064] A reverse bucket 202 is suitably mounted relative to the nozzle200 with horizontally extending pins 204. Thus, the reverse bucket 202can be pivoted in front of the nozzle 200 about an axis defined throughthe pins 204 such that a reversing thrust can be used to slow, stop andreverse the watercraft 20. An operator can control the movement of thereverse bucket 200 with a lever 206 that is connected to the reversebucket 202 with a suitable linkage 208 (see FIG. 5). Other arrangementsalso can be used. A conventional steering arrangement also cooperateswith the nozzle 200 to effect steering movement in accordance withoperator demand.

[0065] With reference now to FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, the engine 174 alsoincludes an induction system 212 that provides air to each combustionchamber (not shown) for combustion. Air within the engine compartment170 is supplied to the engine 174 through the air intake system. Areplenishable air supply is provided to the engine compartment 170 inmanners that will be described in greater detail below.

[0066] Preferably, the air intake system includes an intake box 214 orsilencer into which air from within the engine compartment 170 is drawn.The air is then pulled into an intake conduit 216 after passing througha water repellant filter 218. The air passes into the combustionchambers and can be mixed with fuel within the combustion chambers withdirect fuel injection or can be mixed with fuel prior to passing intothe combustion chambers (e.g., indirect injection, port injection orcarburetion). Preferably, a throttle body (not shown) is provided tocontrol the rate of air flow into the combustion chamber.

[0067] With reference now to FIGS. 1, 3, 5 and 11, fuel is drawn from afuel tank 220 positioned within the cavity 94 defined by the hull 22.Fuel is provided to the fuel tank through a fuel fill tube 221 thatextends upward from the fuel tank 220 to a location along an outersurface of the hull 22. Preferably, a cap 223 is provided to removablyclose the tube 221. Conventional means, such as straps or the likesecure the fuel tank 220 in position along the lower hull portion 26 orliner 28.

[0068] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the fuel tank 220advantageously comprises a water pool 222. Preferably, the water pool222 is disposed in the lowermost portion of the fuel tank 220. Hence, aforward portion of the illustrated water pool 222 preferably slopesupward in a forward direction. In the illustrated arrangement, the waterpool 222 is disposed in a rearmost portion of the fuel tank 220, as thiscomprises a lowermost portion of the illustrated fuel tank 220. In thismanner, water, which is heavier than fuel, can sink into the water pool222.

[0069] With reference now to FIG. 11, a water removal opening 224 isformed though an upper surface of the fuel tank 220. In particular, theunibody construction of the illustrated fuel tank 220, which comprises asingle outer wall 226, also includes two openings, the water removalopening 224 and a fuel pump opening 228. Preferably, the water removalopening 224 is disposed directly above the water pool 222. Thus, thewater removal opening 224 is advantageously designed to accept a waterremoval hose 230. The water removal hose 230 can be connected to asuitable pump, such as an electric pump 232.

[0070] In one configuration, the water removal hose 230 is inserted by aservice technician during servicing and removed during normal operation.In such a configuration, the water removal opening 224 receives aremovable lid 234. The lid preferably simply snaps into place and can besecured in position using a strap, band or other suitable mechanicalfastening configuration 236. In some arrangements, the lid 234 can bethreaded onto an outer surface that partially defines the water removalopening 224.

[0071] With continued reference to FIG. 12, fuel is supplied from thefuel tank 42 to a charge former (e.g., carburetor or fuel injector)through any suitable fuel pumping arrangement. In the illustratedarrangement, a fuel supply unit 238 is mounted to and in the fuel tank220. The fuel supply unit 238 generally comprises an upper cylinder 240and a lower cylinder 242. A spring 244 extends vertically adjacent thecylinders 240, 242. The lower cylinder 242 is spaced from the bottomsurface of the fuel tank 220 with a set of spacers 246.

[0072] A float 248 is connected by a link 250 to a pointer that isdisposed adjacent a scale 252. This assembly generally defines a levelgauge 254 used to show the level of fuel within the fuel tank.

[0073] A fuel pump 256 and a vapor separator 258 are mounted within thefuel supply unit 238. In the illustrated arrangement, both of thesecomponents are mounted within the lower cylinder 242 of the fuel supplyunit 238. Thus, fuel drawn from within the fuel tank 220 by the fuelpump 256 passes through the vapor separator 258 enroute to a fuel pipe260. The fuel pipe 260 supplies fuel to the engine 174 for combustion.

[0074] Vapor gases separated from the fuel passes through a check valve262, which reduces the likelihood that the vapor can return to the fueltank 220. The check valve 262 is connected to a water removal unit 264with an air pipe 266. The water removal unit 264 removes water that maybecome entrained in the vapor being removed through the air pipe 266.Preferably, the water removal unit 264 comprises a drain and a drain cap268. The drain cap 268 can be removed to allow water contained withinthe water removal unit 264 to drain. Generally, the drain cap 268 isremoved during servicing. The water removal unit 264 is disposed alongthe air pipe 266, in part, because a water-resistant ventilation unit270 forms a housing for an outlet 271 of the air pipe 266.

[0075] The illustrated water-resistant ventilation unit 270 generallycomprises a filter container 272 that is mounted to the hull 22. Thecontainer 272 preferably comprises a pair of openings 274 that aremounted on opposite walls of the container 272. Interposed between theoutlet 271 of the air pipe 266 and the openings 274 are a pair offilters 276. The filters 276 preferably comprise a water repellantmaterial and/or construction to reduce the likelihood of water enteringinto the fuel supply system through the vapor removal system. Theillustrated container 272 advantageously is enclosed with a lid 278.Thus, vapor passing from the fuel tank 220 passes through the waterremoval unit 264 and one of a pair of water resistant filters 276 beforeescaping to the atmosphere. In some arrangements, a single waterresistant filter 276 can be used. In other arrangements, more than twowater resistant filters 276 can be used. As illustrated, the ventilationunit can be mounted proximate the mid-deck storage bin 140.

[0076] With reference again to FIG. 12, the fuel tank 220 also isconstructed to reduce the likelihood that water can infiltrate the fuelstorage area within the fuel tank 220. The fuel supply unit 238comprises an outwardly extending upper flange 280 that has an outerportion 281 that creates dimension that is greater than a correspondingdimension of the opening 228 through which the fuel supply unit 238 isinserted into the fuel tank. Thus, the upper flange 280 provides a lipthat can support the fuel supply unit 238 within the fuel tank.

[0077] A seal 282 can be positioned between the flange 280 and the fueltank 220. Preferably, the seal 282 greatly reduces the likelihood thatgas can leak out of the fuel tank 220 and that water or othercontaminants can leak into the fuel tank 220.

[0078] A bracket or mounting ring 284 is used to secure the upper flange280 in place on the fuel tank 220. In the illustrated arrangement, themounting ring 284 has a stepped configuration with a downward jog 286that is sized to compress the flange 280 and the seal 282 in position.Threaded inserts, acorn nuts, or insert nuts 288 are embedded within thewall defining the upper surface proximate the opening 228. While thenuts or inserts could be mounted in other regions, by embedding the nutsor inserts, the likelihood of leakage is greatly reduced. A stub shaft290 extends into each insert or nut 288 and a nut 292 is used on eachstub shaft 290 to tighten the mounting ring 284 in position. Asdiscussed above, this mounting arrangement for the fuel supply unit 238reduces the likelihood that fuel can leak through the opening 228 intothe hull 22 and that water from within the hull 22 can leak into thefuel tank 220.

[0079] As discussed above, an air-fuel charge is passed to thecombustion chamber for combustion. Thus, a suitable ignition system isprovided for igniting the air and fuel mixture in each combustionchamber (not shown). Preferably, this system comprises a spark plugcorresponding to each cylinder. The spark plugs preferably are fired bya suitable ignition system, as well known to those of skill in the art.

[0080] Exhaust gas generated by the engine 174 is routed from the engine174 to a point external to the watercraft 20 by an exhaust system, whichincludes an exhaust passage 300 leading from each combustion chamberthrough the cylinder block 180. An exhaust manifold 302 or pipe isconnected to a side of the engine 174. As best illustrated in FIG. 6,the exhaust manifold 302 is connected to one side of the engine 174while the intake system of the engine 174 is connected to the oppositeside of the engine 174.

[0081] The manifold 302 has a set of branches 304 each having a passagethat corresponds to one of the exhaust passages 300 leading from thecombustion chambers. The branches 304 of the manifold 302 merge at amerge pipe portion 306 of the manifold 302, which extends in a generallyforward direction. An exhaust pipe 308 is connected to the exhaustmanifold 302 and wraps around a forward portion of the engine 174. Theexhaust pipe 308 extends through the bulkhead 130 and connects with awater lock 310. A further pipe connects the water lock 310 to a muffler312. A discharge exhaust pipe extends from the muffler to an underwaterdischarge 314.

[0082] The engine 174 can include a suitable lubricating system forproviding lubricating oil to the various moving parts thereof and forinjection with the fuel. Specifically, a lubrication reservoir 316 canbe provided within the engine compartment. In some arrangements, thelubrication reservoir 316 is formed as an oil pan while in certain drysump arrangements, the lubrication reservoir 316 may include a separateoil supply tank. Thus, the lubrication reservoir 316 can be positionedbelow, behind, forward of or to one side of the engine 174.

[0083] In addition, the engine 174 can include a suitable liquid and/orair cooling system. Moreover, the watercraft 20 can include a bilgesystem for drawing water from within the hull cavity 94 and dischargingit into the body of water. For instance, in the illustrated arrangement,a mechanical bilge pump 318 that is driven by the crankshaft 186 or theimpeller shaft 190 and an electrical bilge pump 320 are used. Water orother liquids picked up by either of the pumps 318, 320 is transferredthrough a conduit 322, 324 associated with the respective pumps 318,320. Three outlet conduits 326, 328, 330 are provided to transfer theliquids to either a tell-tale 332 or other outlets that are disposedbelow the waterline. Thus, the conduits 322, 324, 326, 328, 330 extendupward and then downward to reduce the likelihood that water can backthrough the lines into the hull 22.

[0084] Preferably, air is drawn into the engine compartment 170 throughseveral air ducts. As illustrated, a pair of crossing air ducts 340 areprovided proximate the fuel tank 220. An upper end of each of the airducts 340 is disposed within a respective compartment 342 defined withinthe side body panels 80. To reduce the likelihood that water can flowinto the cavity 94 through the ducts 340, a water repellant filter 344is disposed between the ducts 340 and the atmosphere. In the illustratedarrangement, the water repellant filter 344 is mounted over the end ofeach of the ducts 340. In one arrangement, the side panel or othermembers forming a cavity about an inlet into the ducts 340 can be sealedby a water repellant filter 344 that allows air to flow into the chamberbut that substantially excludes large volumes of water from flowing intothe chamber. As will be recognized, the number of ducts 340 is notcritical and can be varied as desired depending upon the application. Inaddition, for semantics, the outer end of any air duct that extendsthrough the hull 22 away from the hull cavity 94 is considered the inletend while the other end of the duct that is positioned within the hullcavity 94 is considered the outlet end; however, as used herein, inletand outlet are used for convenience and, depending upon the particularoperating conditions, the flow of air through the air ducts can be ineither direction or in both directions.

[0085] Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain features,aspects and advantages of the present invention to which various changesand modifications may be made without departing from the spirit andscope of the present invention. A watercraft need not feature allobjects of the present invention to use certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present invention. The present invention, therefore,should only be defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A personal watercraft comprising a deck, saiddeck comprising a pedestal, a seat being supported by said pedestal, acontrol mast extending upward from said deck at a location forward ofsaid seat, a storage compartment positioned forward of said controlmast, a hatch disposed over said storage compartment, a locking memberbeing positioned proximate said hatch, an actuator being separated fromsaid locking member and communicating with said locking member, saidactuator being disposed at a location rearward of said locking member.2. The personal watercraft of claim 1, wherein said actuator is a leverand said actuator is connected to said locking member with a cable. 3.The personal watercraft of claim 2, wherein said hatch is pivotallyconnected to said deck.
 4. The personal watercraft of claim 3, whereinsaid storage compartment has an upper perimeter and a seal is disposedaround said upper perimeter between said hatch and said deck when saidhatch is closed.
 5. The personal watercraft of claim 4, wherein saidlocking member is positioned between a portion of said hatch and saiddeck when said hatch is closed.
 6. The personal watercraft of claim 5,wherein said locking member is disposed between said storage compartmentand said control mast.
 7. The personal watercraft of claim 6, whereinsaid actuator is disposed between said locking member and said seat. 8.The personal watercraft of claim 7, wherein said actuator is disposed toone side of a longitudinal vertical plane that substantially bisectssaid watercraft.
 9. The personal watercraft of claim 8, wherein saidcable extends under at least one cover member that is attached to saiddeck.
 10. A personal watercraft comprising a deck, a forward storagecompartment positioned below said deck with an access opening extendingthrough said deck, a cover pivotally attached to said deck forward ofsaid access opening, a lock disposed rearward of said access opening andan actuator for said lock being physically separated from said lockwhile being operatively connected to said lock and said actuator beingdisposed rearward of said lock.
 11. The personal watercraft of claim 10,wherein said lock is disposed forward of a gauge that is mounted to saiddeck.
 12. The personal watercraft of claim 10, wherein said lock ispositioned between said cover and said deck when said cover is closedover said access opening.
 13. The personal watercraft of claim 12,wherein a seal is interposed between said cover and said deck when saidcover is closed over said access opening.
 14. The personal watercraft ofclaim 13, wherein said lock is disposed adjacent to said seal.
 15. Thepersonal watercraft of claim 10, wherein said lock and said actuator areconnected with a cable.
 16. The personal watercraft of claim 10, whereina gas spring cylinder is provided at a forward portion of said cover.17. The personal watercraft of claim 10 further comprising alongitudinally extending vertical plane that substantially bisects saidwatercraft, said actuator being disposed to a port side of said plane.18. The personal watercraft of claim 10 further comprising a controlmast disposed rearward of said access opening, said actuator beingdisposed proximate said control mast.
 19. The personal watercraft ofclaim 18, wherein said actuator is a lever that is disposed slightlyforward of and to one side of said control mast.
 20. A personalwatercraft comprising a deck, a storage bin accessible through an accessopening formed in said deck, a cover removably disposed above saidaccess opening, a latching mechanism configured to secure said cover ina closed position and means for remotely unlatching said latchingmechanism such that said cover can be opened.